"Desmond Howard and Charles Woodson, as winners of the Heisman Trophy, I think they are both deserving of having those jerseys retired," Carr said Wednesday. "I believe that … I think it’s an issue that is very important to Michigan football."

I’m not big on retiring jerseys but if the tradition is going to continue, I’d love to see Desmond and Woodson honored. And while I don’t think there is racist intent, it’s still a bit glaring after all these years (and Heismans) that no African American is represented among those retired.

So this brings me to this, and thanks to my man and local writer James Dickson (see MVictors guestposts) for allowing me to post this beauty. A while ago JD dug up this October 1997 report from Amy Whitesall of Ann Arbor News, announcing that #21 would be hung up for good:

Except of course none of that ever happened.

So what’s deal? The report was pretty specific (U-M board voted Tuesday…ceremonynext season…) so you’ve got to believe something was seriously in the works. James was working to track down the story but hasn’t got a clear answer. I suggested it be posted here in case anyone knew the deal, and JD agreed.

It’s certainly not the first Michigan football ring to be offered up on eBay and heck, it’s not even the first time someone’s sold a ‘97 championship ring. Maybe this is the same one just placed back on the block.

1980 Rose Bowl ring: Probably the wildest story, a ring alleged to a salesman sample bearing the name ‘McCartney’ on the side prompts a note from former Michigan and Colorado coach Bill McCartney’s wife Lyndi, asking that the ring be returned to her husband.

I think the seller is reaching on the $6K figure. I’m guessing this would be closer to $2K-$3K item but you never know if a big shot will swoop in to grab it.